Education

Specialization

Vocal performance

Vocal pedagogy

Artistic Directing and Advising

Choreography

Biography

A native of Nova Scotia, Ron de Jager is excited to be back in Saskatchewan after a two year study leave during which he completed a Doctor of Musical Arts at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia. Recent research and recitals have focused on Canadian vocal music particularly works by Canadian composer John Beckwith. Throughout his studies Ron has had the privilege of working with Lorna MacDonald, Elvira Gonella, Greta Kraus, Russell Braun, Caralyn Maule, Che Anne Loewen, Mel Braun, Dr. Laura Loewen, and most recently, Dr. Janette Ogg.

On May 23, 2012, Ron had the privilege of singing for Prince Charles and The Duchess of Cornwall at the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan commemorating the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. The ceremony was broadcast nationally on CBC and CTV. In addition, Ron has enjoyed performing opera, oratorio, musical theatre, film and ballet. Select performances includeThe Five Mystical Songsby Ralph Vaughan Williams, Papageno in DieZauberflöte, Billy Budd inBilly Budd, Harry Easter inStreet Scene, Eli Black inWithout a Hitch?, Gabrielle inThe Song of Evangeline, Curly inOKLAHOMA!,the title role inPhantom, Matthew inAnne of Green Gables,Lumiere inBeauty and the Beastand Max inThe Sound of Music.He was the Artistic Director and Founder of the Musical Theatre Company, ROD Music Productions in Halifax, N.S. At the request of the Lieutenant Governor of Nova Scotia, he was the guest soloist at the inauguration of Pier 21 on Canada Day 2000 commemorating the many immigrants who entered Canada through this port.

As a professor at Briercrest College, he enjoys giving leadership to the voice department, teaching private voice, vocal master class, musical theatre workshop, music theory, acting and directing opera scenes while maintaining a performance schedule. In addition, he is the happy father of two beautiful girls who steal his heart on a regular basis. Ron finds great delight in sharing the gift of music with others and inspiring young artists to share the unique gifts God entrusts to His children.

Research

The Development of Canadian Nationalistic Music Demonstrated in the Works of John Beckwith